Simple Number Line Car Race to Teach Math

When I showed a flashcard, my daughter would place the car on its starting line. We used the first number shown on the flashcard as the start.

Then, she would race the car up (adding) or down (subtracting) the number of lines shown as the second number on the flashcard. When the car ended up at its “finish line,” we had our answer!

For example, if the flashcard said 5+3. The car’s starting line was 5.

She would then move the car as she counted up 3 lines to end on the 8. That was the car’s finish line.

This allowed her to see that 5+3=8.

For beginning learners, it can be helpful to add in arrows to show which way to move.

Draw one arrow pointing “up” the number line toward bigger numbers for addition. Use another line going “down” the line to show subtraction.

If she raced two cars side by side with different addition facts, she could see which car went further. It’s a great way to compare the value of numbers.

This simple activity can also help children build fact fluency or the immediate recall of math facts. By repeating the same “race” again and again, muscle memory might help your child recall these facts more easily!

This super simple number line car race could also work for little ones learning their numbers. When you call out a number, they can race the car to that space on the number line!

Reader Interactions

1 Comment

This is a wonderful idea that will really help students understand number sense. Many of my students struggle with number concepts, because they have never “worked with numbers’ the way that your car race number line activity suggests. Instead, students “memorize” these problems and have no idea why 5 + 3 actually is 8. Thanks for sharing this!

What Parents Have to Say…

There's always something new for us to discover, as well as old favorites. I am so grateful to have activities handed to us... Fun and easy ones that can be put together in a moment's notice! You're awesome Jamie and I appreciate you sharing your activities and ideas!! - Melissa C.

I feel like a new mama having so many fun ideas. I used to dread the afternoon, after naps, as it was so boring doing the same thing day after day but now I look forward to our "play" time!- Haley S.

You have changed how I spend time with my kid in so many positive ways! I am now one happy dad that no longer wonders what I am going to do with this little guy for the next 12 hours :P Your site was this first time dad life saver! - Jack C.

It is hard to think of things to keep the 3 year old entertained and engaged while taking care of the baby. Everything we have tried so far from your website, the three year old has loved. Your ideas are so simple and he can do them for hours. HEAVEN!- Karen I.

This site uses cookies to customize content and advertising, to provide social media features and analyze traffic to our site. We also share information about how you use our site with our trusted social media, advertising and analytic partners. Find out more.